The Central Government has decided to temporarily suspend rice fortification under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and other welfare schemes until a more robust mechanism for nutrient delivery is developed.
The decision follows a detailed review of the implementation of fortified rice distribution across government schemes aimed at improving nutritional outcomes for beneficiaries.
IIT Kharagpur Study on Shelf Life of Fortified Rice
The government had commissioned a study by Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur to assess the shelf life of Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) and Fortified Rice (FR) under real storage conditions across different agro-climatic zones in India.
Key Findings of the Report
The study concluded that several factors significantly affect the stability and shelf life of fortified rice, including:
- Moisture content
- Storage conditions
- Temperature
- Relative humidity
- Packaging materials
The report highlighted that prolonged storage and regular handling could lead to a reduction in micronutrient levels, thereby limiting the effectiveness of fortification in achieving intended nutritional goals.
Given the large procurement volumes, rice stocks are typically stored for two to three years, increasing the risk of nutrient degradation.
Stock Position and Allocation Details
Under PMGKAY and other welfare schemes, the annual allocation stands at 372 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT), while the total availability in the central pool is estimated at 674 LMT, including procurement from KMS 2025–26.
The review suggested that the expected shelf life of fortified rice is being reduced under actual storage conditions, impacting the programme’s nutrition objectives.
No Impact on Food Entitlement
The government clarified that the temporary halt in rice fortification:
- Will not affect foodgrain entitlements of beneficiaries
- Will not disrupt operations under the Public Distribution System (PDS)
- Will not impact schemes such as ICDS and the Mid-Day Meal programme
Food supply and distribution will continue as usual.
Transitional Flexibility for States
For KMS 2025–26 (Kharif season) and pending procurement from KMS 2024–25, states and Union Territories have been given operational flexibility. They may supply either fortified or non-fortified rice based on logistical requirements during the transition period.
Focus on Developing Stronger Nutritional Mechanism
The Centre stated that rice fortification will remain suspended until a more effective and scientifically robust system for nutrient delivery is developed and implemented.
The move reflects the government’s effort to ensure that nutrition-focused interventions under PMGKAY and related schemes deliver measurable and sustainable outcomes while maintaining food security across the country.
